Channel 4 and Tourism Ireland Reunite for New Travel Series Coast to Coast: The Scenic Route

By Jon Donnis

Channel 4 has recommissioned its hit branded entertainment series in partnership with Tourism Ireland, with comedians Babatunde Aléshé and Finlay Christie returning for a fresh, offbeat take on Irish travel. Titled Coast to Coast: The Scenic Route, the latest instalment promises stunning views, spirited competition and plenty of unexpected laughs as the pair explore two of Ireland's most iconic drives: the Causeway Coastal Route and the Wild Atlantic Way.

The series sees Aléshé and Christie take part in a self-described 'battle of generations' as they leave their comfort zones and dive into a series of challenges rooted in Irish tradition and nature. From sheepdog handling to brush dancing and abseiling down rugged cliffs, the duo face off in head-to-head trials that highlight both their personalities and the rich cultural experiences on offer across Ireland's coastal landscapes.

Filmed against the backdrop of the breathtaking Irish countryside, Coast to Coast: The Scenic Route is Channel 4 and Tourism Ireland's third branded content collaboration. It follows the success of Where to Next? (2024) and Stand Up Road Trip (2023), both of which also starred Aléshé. Produced by Strong Watch Studios, with media planning and buying managed by OMD UK, the new series is set to premiere on Channel 4's YouTube channel from 19 May, before rolling out on TikTok, Instagram and Facebook from 28 May.

The project also includes a digital expansion in partnership with Guardian Advertising. This includes bespoke travel itineraries based on themes like food, wellbeing and outdoor activity, designed to inspire real-life trips across Ireland. Beautifully designed interactive maps and online travel guides will be featured on the Guardian's website, which reaches around 40% of the UK's travel-loving audience. Aléshé and Christie will also appear in audio ads across the Guardian's podcast network, bringing their unique comedic chemistry to even more platforms.

Speaking about the experience, Babatunde Aléshé said:

"I was absolutely thrilled to return to Ireland for this partnership! Such a beautiful country and such kind, joyous people. I love working with the brilliant creatives at Strong Watch and Channel 4 as well - and I'm super proud of this project."

Finlay Christie added:

"Ireland is a land familiar enough to soothe, but rich with its own wild character. It was a gentle adventure. One day I was herding lambs, the next I was floating in a seaweed bath like an ancient Celtic king. There were so many laughs, new experiences and vistas that opened like paintings. It was an absolute dank ting. I had a genuinely wicked time."

With its playful generational rivalry, sweeping cinematography and mix of high-energy and heartfelt moments, Coast to Coast: The Scenic Route offers an uplifting travel series designed to entertain, inspire, and encourage audiences to plan their own Irish escape.